Firecracker-loaded trike explodes in Bocaue

BOCAUE, Bulacan – PNA) - A tricycle loaded with firecrackers and pyrotechnics burst into flames when a firecracker went off inside the vehicle in Barangay Lolomboy here last Wednesday.

Supt. Amado Mendoza, Bocaue police chief, said there were no illegal firecrackers in the tricycle.

"Still, the driver of the tricycle will face charges for transporting firecrackers without the necessary permit," he said.

The still unidentified tricycle driver immediately fled the scene.

“So, let's first-decide if the one in the said tricycle is a retailer and if he or she is a retailer, does he have a corresponding permit. Secondly, if he has more than 1,000 kilos (of gunpowder) inside his tricycle, there should be a compliance permit from Bureau of Fire and permit from PNP (Philippine National Police),” he added.

He said investigators tracing the source of the firecrackers and pyrotechnics and the owner of the tricycle.

Meanwhile, some 20 police officers are conducting round-the-clock monitoring of firecracker stalls in Bocaue town to curb the trade of illegal firecrackers.

Authorities are determined to arrest sellers of illegal firecrackers under R.A. 7183 or the Act Regulating the Sale, Manufacture, Distribution, and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices.